True Love Tuesday Tommy McLaughlin and Ciaran English... - Getting Married in Northern Ireland Magazine

A Love Story to Remember

“True love isn’t found, it’s built, moment by moment, through laughter and tears, in the most unexpected places and cherished memories.”

Tommy McLaughlin, a 27-year-old visual merchandiser from Portglenone, and Ciaran English, a 30-year-old senior technical analyst from Belfast, had always known they were destined for something extraordinary.
Their paths first crossed on the 17th of March 2018, in the lively atmosphere of Lavery’s pub in Belfast. Little did they know, this chance meeting would spark a love story that would eventually lead them to a magical wedding day.

Fast forward to the 31st of May 2021, the sun was shining brightly on Runkerry Beach in Portballintrae, a place that held a special spot in Tommy’s heart. With their beloved black Labrador, Finn, frolicking in the waves, Ciaran had planned the perfect proposal. The ring, a beautiful piece from Flinn & Steel, a sustainable jeweller in England, was hidden in the sand, waiting for Tommy to discover it. However, as the minutes ticked by, Tommy remained blissfully unaware. Ciaran, in a mild panic, cleverly placed the ring in Tommy’s shoe. When Tommy put on his trainer and found the ring, his surprise turned to joy as Ciaran got down on one knee. It was a simple yet profoundly heartfelt moment, exactly as Tommy had always wanted.

The couple’s journey from that day on the beach to their wedding on the 27th of May 2023 was filled with love, laughter, and a few spreadsheets. They moved into their first house in Glengormley in 2020, adding a golden retriever named Winnie to their family.

The wedding planning process, though exciting, came with its share of stresses—especially when it came to sticking to the budget. Ciaran’s meticulous spreadsheets became a nightly ritual, much to Tommy’s dismay.

Their wedding attire was custom-made by Dee Graham in Magherafelt, a testament to their impeccable taste. The four groomsmen—Martin (Tommy’s brother), Stephen (Ciaran’s uncle), Marty (Tommy’s brother-in-law), and Brian (Ciaran’s uncle)—were by their sides, dressed to the nines.
The bridesmaids were a lively bunch of six: KellyRose (Tommy’s eldest sister), Lauren (Ciaran’s best friend), Orlagh (Tommy’s sister), Aimee (Ciaran’s sister), Grainne (Tommy’s sister), and Jay-mee (Ciaran’s cousin).
Shopping for their dresses at The Wedding Centre in Randalstown was a highlight, with Lynn and Linda making the experience unforgettable.

The Manor House Country Hotel played host to their wedding and reception, a grand event attended by 170 of their closest family and friends. The theme was a big, fun, elegant celebration of love, complete with a boat cruise on Lough Erne the day before, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend. Sentimental touches were everywhere, from the humanist ceremony led by Claire Taylor to the personalised décor and flowers by McGarry’s Wedding Design in Maguiresbridge.

The day itself felt like a movie. From the emotional vows to the lively reception, everything flowed seamlessly. Una and her team at the Manor House were exceptional, even accommodating Finn’s presence at the ceremony. The highlight of the reception was a surprise performance by a singing police officer, orchestrated by their wedding party, which left everyone in stitches.

Tommy, ever the perfectionist, had a humorous mishap while steaming the bridesmaids’ dresses on the morning of the wedding, resulting in a minor back injury. Nevertheless, painkillers and adrenaline kept him dancing all night. Their first dance was to “Saviour” by Picture This, a moment that felt timeless and perfect.

Reflecting on their wedding, Tommy and Ciaran wouldn’t change a thing. The day was a testament to their love and the support of their families and friends. Their advice to other couples ~ “Enjoy every moment of the planning process, cherish family time, and don’t stress over things you can’t control”

After a mini honeymoon at Farnham Estate, the couple are planning a beachy escape for their big honeymoon.
Married life has been blissful, albeit busy with their new puppy, Winnie.

As they continue their journey together, Tommy and Ciaran look forward to many more adventures, always surrounded by the love that brought them together.

The English’s Love Story is one for the ages—a beautiful blend of romance, fun, and heartfelt moments that will be remembered for a lifetime.